How to Choose a Nursing Bra

Breast-feeding mothers need lots of support - and that includes support from nursing bras. Easy access and comfort are paramount, and good looks don't hurt.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bravado Nursing Bras
• Blouses For Breast-feeding
• Nursing Pads
• Electric Breast Pumps

1. Buy nursing bras close to your due date, or even after your baby arrives. Your breasts will grow larger toward the end of your pregnancy, and again when your milk comes in.

2. Avoid nursing bras with underwires. These can constrict the breasts in all the wrong places and lead to plugged ducts or mastitis.

3. Avoid tight bras for the same reasons.

4. Go for wide, comfortable shoulder straps to support the extra weight.

5. Buy a bra with nursing flaps that can be opened and closed easily with one hand.

6. Get the help of a sales assistant who has been trained in the art of fitting brassieres.

7. Replace your nursing bras regularly to be sure you're getting the support you need while breast-feeding.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice opening and closing your nursing bra with one hand.
• Buy some reusable nursing pads to protect your bras and clothes from the inevitable milk leakage.
• If you have trouble remembering which side you need your baby to nurse from next, put a diaper pin on one of your bra straps, and move it to the other side after each nursing.
• If you get recurring sharp pains, or a red "hot spot" in one breast, your bra may be too tight. Take it off and talk to a lactation consultant, a doctor or a La Leche League leader.
• Make sure you have a few different nursing bras so that you can wash them regularly; this will help protect you and your baby from the possibility of infection.

Who Can Help:

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